Fractional Ownership: Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask – Answered

Curious about owning a holiday home in France without the full-time price tag? Here’s what you need to know.

If you’ve ever dreamed of having your own place in the French countryside – but balked at the cost, maintenance, or commitment – you’re not alone.

That’s exactly why more and more UK holidaymakers are turning to fractional ownership (also known as co-ownership or part ownership) as a smarter, more flexible way to enjoy a second home abroad.

At Manoir de Founecrop, we’re proud to offer this model of shared ownership – but we also know it’s a new concept for many. So in this blog, we’re answering the most frequently asked questions to help you understand how it works, what you get, and why it’s not the same as a timeshare.

What is fractional ownership?

Fractional ownership means purchasing a share in a property – rather than buying it outright – with the right to use it for a set period each year. At Manoir de Founecrop, each share gives you exclusive use of the manor for one week every year, rotating through the seasons on a calendar system.

Unlike timeshares, you actually own a legal share of the property – not just the right to use it.

Is fractional ownership the same as a timeshare?

No. The key differences are:

Ownership: With fractional, you own a real share of the property. With timeshare, you don’t.

Equity: Your share can gain value and be sold, passed on, or gifted.

Transparency: You’re co-owner with a clear structure – not just a customer in a scheme.

Fewer owners: Fractional ownership usually involves far fewer people (typically 10–23) compared to timeshares.

This is more than a holiday home — it’s a lifestyle investment. A timeless place to unwind, explore, and build unforgettable memories with loved ones.

How to become a shareholder – the steps

Firstly we recommend where possible to ‘come and see for yourself’ the Manoir and its environment.

A ferry ride from either Portsmouth or Poole will have you here the same day – in summer in under three hours.

Our Managing Director will be happy to show you around the Manor and its grounds and to answer any questions you may have.

This is how ‘buying in’ works in practice:

1. If you feel this may be for you contact us and a mutually convenient time for you to visit will be agreed and we will ‘reserve until viewed’ the number of weeks that you are interested in acquiring. This secures an allocation until you have had time to view and consider.

2. When you have viewed the Manoir we will hold those weeks for 14 days for you to decide if this is really for you – there is no pressure or forms to sign on your visit.

3. Once you have confirmed your interest a share sale agreement will be signed between you and the shareholder concerned.

4. Once a sale is agreed the completed share transfer form will be lodged with us along with their share certificate for cancellation.

5. At that point the agreed sale price will be requested to be paid by bank transfer into our National Westminster business account No 2.

6. When confirmation of the transfer is received, we will forward the transfer form to HMRC for stamping, the appropriate duty will be paid, your details entered on the company register of shareholders and a share certificate will be issued in your name.

Alternatively you can buy ‘blind’ – which is the above procedure less the visit.

Naturally we would prefer that you visit in person but occasionally in the past owners had business considerations or their location made a visit impractical – we have shareholders in the USA and others that are now not UK based.

We would add that none of those who had bought ‘blind’ are not amongst those selling their shares.

Do I get the same week each year?

No – and that’s part of the beauty of it.

At Manoir de Founecrop, the calendar is designed to rotate your week forward by one season and one week every year. That means over time, you’ll experience:

The manor in spring, summer, autumn, and winter

A variety of festivals, events, and local flavours

Both peak and off-peak seasons

Can I bring family and friends?

Absolutely. Your week is yours to enjoy – whether that’s for a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a quiet solo break. The house sleeps up to 10, so there’s space for everyone.

We do ask that all guests respect the house and the co-ownership agreement. Rentals to third parties aren’t permitted – this is about shared ownership, not short-term letting.

Who handles the cleaning and maintenance?

We do. Manoir de Founecrop is professionally managed, with:

Weekly turnaround cleaning

On-site caretaker checks

Regular maintenance, gardening, and repairs

A sinking fund that all owners contribute to annually to cover upkeep

That means no DIY, no stress – just arrive, unpack, and enjoy.

How easy is it to get there from the UK?

Very easy. Manoir de Founecrop is located in Normandy, under 90 minutes from the ferry port at Caen or the Eurotunnel terminal at Calais. You can drive from southern England in under six hours.

Regular ferry routes and affordable crossings make it an ideal second home for UK buyers who want the convenience of door-to-door travel without the jet lag.

Can I sell my share in future?

Yes. Your share is fully sellable, just like any other form of property. Many buyers keep their share for life and pass it on to children or grandchildren, but if your circumstances change, you’re free to sell your week at any time.

We’ll even support you with marketing and resale if needed.

Why choose Manoir de Founecrop?

Beyond the ownership model, it’s about the property itself:

A 16th-century French manor with five bedrooms and stunning historic features

Set in 7 acres of private grounds

Fully furnished and beautifully restored

Managed and maintained to a high standard

This is not just a property – it’s a lifestyle, a tradition, and a place to come home to again and again.

TL;DR – Top 5 Benefits of Fractional Ownership at Manoir de Founecrop

Real ownership, not a timeshare

A week every year for life – rotating with the seasons

Hassle-free holidays – all the joy, none of the chores

Cost-effective luxury – shares from £16,000

A stunning, historic base in beautiful Normandy

Ready to Own Your French Escape?

There are just 16 weeks remaining at Manoir de Founecrop. If you’ve been dreaming of a second home – without the second mortgage – this could be your moment.

👉 Explore ownership opportunities at manoirdefounecrop.com

Or get in touch to request a brochure or arrange a virtual tour.